Phase two of the new Tracadie Child and Youth Centre is now complete, says Community Services, Seniors and Labour Minister Janice Sherry.
“The safety and security of Island children in the legal care of Child Protection Services continues to be a top priority for our government,” said Minister Sherry. “I want to thank the surrounding community for their heartwarming support and for welcoming our children and staff as, together, we provide our children and youth with a safe home and quality life.”
Phase two, which included the renovation of two former housing units, will have Provincial Adolescent Group Home and Maple Street Group Home youth, relocate to the new Tracadie site. One home will accommodate up to nine youth (ages 12-17), while the smaller unit will serve up to six youth. Each unit is an open-concept home with a spacious kitchen and bright dining area.
Tracadie was selected as an optimal residential site for children and youth in the legal care of Child Protection Services with access to a community centre, gymnasium, outdoor hockey arena, soccer fields, baseball diamond, playground, large backyard with stunning flower gardens and only a five-minute walk to the nearest beach.
“The new Tracadie Child and Youth Centre is an excellent example of government and community working together to protect our most vulnerable children,” said Minister Sherry. “By working together, we enrich the opportunities for children and youth to reach their full potential in life.”
Phase one was successfully completed in December 2010 with the relocation of the former Brackley Children’s Centre for children ages six to 12 who are in the legal care of Child Protection Services. Plans for phase three are being developed and will include additional resources to the Tracadie site.
In addition to the $2.5 million from the 2009 capital budget, $1.2 million has been allocated in the 2015-16 capital budget to further enhance residential services to children and youth in the legal care of Child Protection Services. Youth from the Provincial Adolescent Group Home and Maple Street Group Home will relocate to the Tracadie Child and Youth Centre over the next two weeks.